Carbon footprint is a term that is heard quite frequently. While you understand that too much carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can be detrimental to life on earth, the onus of reducing the level lies on you along with other individuals too. Unfortunately, few recognize the threat of methane gas emissions that are equally hazardous to life and natural resources. You would be happy to know that both government organizations and non-government entities have come forward with the goal of reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas industry. Research studies reveal that even small amounts of methane in the air can have a detrimental effect on the environment, human health, and climate as a whole. This gas may also affect the troposphere by depleting ozone from the layer.
Best Ways of Reducing Methane Emissions From The Oil And Gas Industry
The idea seems innovative and useful. Sadly, it is extremely difficult to plug the oil and gas wells that have been abandoned after extraction of the required amount. Known as orphaned wells, the experts try to plug all such wells effectively. This not only helps to reduce methane emissions but sustains the natural resources to a great degree too.
The huge number of oil & gas wells that are abandoned after extraction of the fossil fuels is dangerous when left behind. While such wells are required to be plugged properly to reduce methane gas leakage, such an effort is often thought to be redundant. Thankfully there are numerous NGOs and climate charities that have taken up the cause.
You as an individual may not be able to do much about it, however. It is important to join an organization or work as an expert behind the scenes by providing vital information about the abandoned wells that pose the risk of methane gas emissions.
Process of Plugging Orphan Wells
Apart from the environmental agencies, OSHA recommends plugging all orphan wells in one’s vicinity to ensure safety for all residing or working in the area. The crucial steps that must be followed to plug such wells include:-
- Preparation of the well site to ensure safety for workers in and around the location
- Removal and salvage of harmful equipment, remnants, and hazardous materials left behind
- Removal of tubulars (steel pipes used to bore holes) left above the well hole. The tubular inside the wellbore is usually allowed to remain there.
- The tubulars that are isolated and free may be removed and the stuck tubular cut from the level of the extraction line.
- Cement is poured into the bored well to plug the hole well and truly. The process of plugging must be done in compliance with Federal and state regulatory standards.
- Cutting off the casing below ground level to make the surface fit to be reclaimed for another purpose
The dangers of methane gas emissions not only taint the environment but may affect all natural resources affecting health and agriculture adversely. The need for reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas industry has become all-important to make the planet sustain life in the future.